The moment fight fans have been waiting for is finally here: UFC 330. Taking place in Philadelphia, this weekend’s card is headlined by a massive welterweight title fight between Islam Makhachev and Ian Machado Garry. The card also features Mackenzie Dern defending her strawweight title against Gillian Robertson, along with several intriguing matchups featuring some of the UFC’s brightest prospects.
Main Card Predictions and Breakdown
Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Machado Garry — Welterweight Title Fight (Main Event)
Islam Makhachev makes his first welterweight title defense against Ian Machado Garry. Makhachev brings elite wrestling and control, while Garry has a major height advantage and dangerous striking.
Garry will need to keep the fight at range, but Makhachev’s ability to close distance and control opponents could be the difference.
Prediction: Islam Makhachev via decision. His wrestling and control should allow him to win the majority of the rounds. (Islam Makhachev to win -350)
Mackenzie Dern vs. Gillian Robertson — Women’s Strawweight Title Fight (Co-Main Event)
Mackenzie Dern puts her strawweight title on the line against Gillian Robertson, who enters the fight on a five fight winning streak. Both women are elite grapplers and dangerous submission artists.
This should come down to who can dictate where the fight takes place. Dern’s submission game gives her a major weapon whenever the fight hits the ground.
Prediction: Mackenzie Dern via submission. Dern’s jiu-jitsu should eventually create an opening for a finish. (Mackenzie Dern to win -215)
Mansur Abdul-Malik vs. Dustin Stoltzfus — Middleweight
Mansur Abdul-Malik takes on veteran Dustin Stoltzfus in a matchup between a dangerous prospect and an experienced UFC fighter.
Abdul-Malik has the athleticism and power advantage, while Stoltzfus will need to use his experience and grappling to slow the fight down.
Prediction: Mansur Abdul-Malik via KO. His explosiveness and power should lead to another impressive finish. (Mansur Abdul-Malik to win -675)
Edson Barboza vs. Esteban Ribovics — Lightweight
Edson Barboza faces Esteban Ribovics in what could be one of the most entertaining fights on the card. Barboza remains one of the UFC’s most dangerous kickers, while Ribovics is younger and brings plenty of power.
Barboza’s experience could make things interesting, but Ribovics’ pressure and aggression should give him the advantage.
Prediction: Esteban Ribovics via KO. Ribovics’ pressure and power should eventually catch the veteran. (Esteban Ribovics to win -600)